Consumer Tips: TV & Radio

Digital television (DTV) is a new broadcasting technology that will deliver television signals digitally and virtually free of interference.  DTV will offer enhanced picture quality and digital surround sound, among other enhancements.  The advantage of digital is that it is more efficient and allows the same number of stations to broadcast more program material using fewer broadcast airwaves – freeing up airwaves for other services. 

The "DTV transition" refers to the conversion of the nation's television broadcast system from analog technology to digital technology.  Congress set a target date of February 17, 2009, for the transition to be completed and for the analog channels broadcasters use to be returned so that they can be assigned for other purposes. 

The conversion will impact millions of consumers who receive over-the-air programming. Consumers will be required to purchase new digital TVs or a converter box for their existing TV.

To learn more about digital TV and the transition, visit the Consumer Reports DTV transition page.